The Ultimate Guide to Second Hand Clothing in Australia (2025 Edition)

Why Second Hand Clothing is Trending in Australia

In 2025, Australians are buying more second hand clothing than ever before. Once seen as old-fashioned or niche, preloved fashion is now a mainstream choice. Rising costs of living, growing awareness of sustainability, and the desire for unique style are driving this change.

At Chic Wardrobe, born in Tasmania and shipping across Australia, we’ve seen firsthand how shoppers are choosing second hand clothes not only to save money but also to support the planet.

What Counts as Second Hand Clothing?

Second hand clothing includes:

• Preloved fashion: Gently used clothing that still looks great.

• Vintage clothes: Older items, often 20+ years old, with unique character.

• Designer resale: High-end brands like Cue, Country Road or Portmans at a fraction of the cost.

• Upcycled or repaired pieces: Items refreshed for a second life.

Every piece has a story, and buying second hand means you give it a new chapter.

Why Australians Are Choosing Second Hand Clothes

1. Affordability

You can buy quality second hand clothes at a fraction of their retail price. For example, a $200 designer dress might cost under $70 second hand.

2. Sustainability

The Australian Circular Textile Association estimates that 500,000 tonnes of clothing are discarded each year. Choosing second hand clothing helps reduce waste and supports circular fashion.

3. Unique Style

Unlike fast fashion, where everyone wears the same trend, preloved clothing offers individuality. Whether you want a vintage denim jacket or a one-off floral dress, second hand finds set your wardrobe apart.

How to Style Preloved Clothing

Styling preloved clothing is all about creativity:

• Mix vintage with modern. Pair a preloved denim skirt with a new blazer.

• Build a sustainable capsule wardrobe with versatile second hand staples.

• Use accessories like bags and belts to elevate simple outfits.

• Layer for Australia’s changing climate – especially handy in Tasmania’s cooler seasons.

The Environmental Impact of Second Hand Clothing

Fashion is one of the world’s most polluting industries. By choosing second hand clothing, you help:

• Keep garments out of landfill.

• Save water (a single pair of jeans uses 7,500 litres of water to make).

• Reduce carbon emissions.

A report by the Australian Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water shows that extending the life of a garment by just nine months can cut its environmental impact by up to 30%.

Why Chic Wardrobe?

As a Tasmanian-born business, Chic Wardrobe combines affordability with sustainability. We believe second hand clothing should be stylish, accessible and well-curated. With shipping available Australia-wide, we make it easy for anyone to embrace sustainable fashion.

Is Second Hand Clothing Worth It in 2025?

Absolutely. Second hand clothing is affordable, stylish and sustainable. By choosing preloved clothes, you save money, reduce waste and build a unique wardrobe that reflects your personality.

👉 Explore Chic Wardrobe’s second hand clothing collection today – affordable, stylish and sustainable.